Ronaldo tops Saudi Pro League pay scale, doubling Neymar’s earnings for 2024-25

Ronaldo's move to Al Nassr in January 2023 was pivotal for the Saudi Pro League, triggering a wave of high-profile signings.

Ronaldo Tops Pay Chart In Rsl
Elie Hokayem/Saudi Pro League via Getty Images and MB Media/Getty Images

Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr in January 2023 was a landmark event for the Saudi Pro League. The ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid star’s shift to the Middle East initiated a surge of high-profile signings. Despite not securing a league title with Al Nassr in two attempts, Ronaldo’s 50-goal performance in the 2023-24 season proves his worth, even without considering the immense commercial appeal of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.

Capology reports that Ronaldo is the highest-paid player in the Saudi Pro League, earning an impressive €200 million annually. This amount is double that of the league’s next highest earners, Neymar and Karim Benzema, who each make €100 million. Following them is former Manchester City player Riyad Mahrez, with a salary of €52.5 million.

These substantial salaries highlight the Saudi Pro League’s dedication to becoming a top destination for elite football talent. As the 2024-25 season approaches, several other stars, including Casemiro, Ederson, Alisson Becker, and Kevin De Bruyne, are being linked to moves to Saudi Arabia.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro

Forwarder, Midfielder

PortugalPortugal

Age: 39

188 cm

83 kg

Season 2024
Played 1 2 Missed
Minutes 90 90.0 Avg
Goals 0 0.0 Avg
Assist 0 0.0 Avg
Attempt 0 0.0 Avg
Passes 28 28.00.0% AvgSucc
Yellow 1 1.0 Avg
Red 0 0.0 Avg

Al Nassr performance and stats

Al Nassr

Manager: Luís Ribeiro de Castro
Top 3 Scorers
This season

Neymar

Neymar da Silva Santos Junior

Forwarder, Midfielder

BrazilBrazil

Age: 32

175 cm

68 kg

Al Hilal performance and stats

Al Hilal

Manager: Jorge Pinheiro de Jesus
Top 3 Scorers
This season